Colitis

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Large intestine

Ulcerative colitis

Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dehydration, abdominal bloating, increased intestinal gas, and bloody stools.

Colitis may be identified by flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy  -- in both of these tests, a flexible tube is inserted in the rectum, and specific areas of the colon are evaluated. Biopsies taken during these tests may show changes related to inflammation.

Other studies that can identify colitis include:

• Barium enema  
• Abdominal CT scan  
• Abdominal MRI  
• Abdominal x-ray

Review Date: 05/04/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.